PNG Power focus on connecting the rural in 2019

By Jack Lapauve Jr – EMTV News, Port Moresby

Connecting rural communities will be PNG Power’s aim for 2019. With the National Government embarking on a major power project from APEC countries, electricity services are hoped to reach some of PNG’s most rugged, inland communities.

PNG Power Limited’s (PPL) Acting Managing Director, Carolyn Blacklock, says a main power source must be established in district headquarters, with connections back onto the urban grid. The head of PPL says the organisation is now embarking on connecting rural communities despite challenges it is facing.

A key structure for connecting rural communities is to empower districts with an operation centre. Blacklock says districts must have trained apprentices to monitor and carry out PPL operations. “They must meet the requirements and apply when PPL advertises the opportunity,” said Blacklock.

While there is more focus to rural PNG, Blacklock is concerned with the rate of illegal connections in urban centres. She says 1 in 3 houses are illegally connected and this is putting a strain on capacity and supply.